Rosenbauer showcases PANTHER electric firefighting vehicle at Austrian racetrack
Iain Hoey
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Electric firefighting vehicle demonstrated in Austria
Rosenbauer has reported that its fully electric firefighting vehicle, the PANTHER electric, was publicly tested at the Salzburgring racing circuit in Austria on 20 and 21 May 2025.
According to Rosenbauer, the demonstration event, titled the PANTHER electric Experience, welcomed around 300 attendees including customers, airport representatives and sales partners from across the globe.
The event included test drives of the PANTHER electric and other electric models, product exhibitions, and technical demonstrations focused on the use of e-mobility in emergency response.
Test drives and simulator demonstrations at Salzburgring
Rosenbauer stated that test drives of the PANTHER electric were the main feature of the event, allowing participants to assess its handling and performance under guided conditions.
It added that another electric firefighting vehicle, the Revolutionary Technology (RT), was also available for test demonstrations to highlight its turning capabilities.
Additional systems and tools were exhibited in the pit area, including the RFC Simulator Tactic PANTHER, the RTE Robot AX, and battery fire suppression systems such as the RFC CUTTEX and the RFC battery extinguishing unit.
Battery power supports full performance capability
Rosenbauer explained that the PANTHER electric operates with four electric drive motors and high-voltage batteries, providing sufficient range to complete typical emergency response operations on a single charge.
The company noted that its batteries can be charged using up to 300 kW, allowing rapid turnaround between deployments.
It said the system’s Boost Mode draws energy from both the battery pack and backup energy system to exceed 880 kW (1180 hp), achieving 80 km/h in under 20 seconds and reaching a maximum speed of 120 km/h in all-electric operation.
International aviation standards exceeded
According to Rosenbauer, the PANTHER electric meets and surpasses operational standards set by both the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
The manufacturer added that the vehicle’s extinguishing system – including pump, foam system and turret – performs identically to the diesel-powered PANTHER.
It also stated that the energy backup system ensures ongoing operational capacity, even if battery charge is depleted during use.
Rosenbauer introduces PANTHER electric to international fire services: Summary
Rosenbauer hosted the PANTHER electric Experience on 20 and 21 May 2025.
The event was held at Salzburgring in Austria.
Attendees included airport representatives, customers and sales partners.
Participants tested the PANTHER electric and other electric response vehicles.
Demonstrations were supervised by Rosenbauer personnel.
The RT vehicle was tested for turning capabilities.
Technology showcases included the RTE Robot AX and RFC battery fire tools.
The PANTHER electric has four electric drive motors.
Its top speed is 120 km/h using electric power.
The vehicle accelerates to 80 km/h in under 20 seconds.
It can be fully recharged at 300 kW.
The pump and turret can operate in electric-only mode.
An energy backup system supports continued operation.
Rosenbauer said the vehicle exceeds ICAO and FAA requirements.
The PANTHER electric entered the market in 2024.